Question

Which of the following alkyl halides undergoes hydrolysis with aqueous $KOH$ at the fastest rate?

• A. $C{H}_{3}C{H}_{2}C{H}_{2}Cl$
• B. $C{H}_{3}C{H}_{2}Cl$
• C. $C{H}_{3}C{H}_{2}C{H}_{2}C{H}_{2}Cl$
• D. $C{H}_{3}C{H}_{2}CH\left(Br\right)C{H}_3$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $C{H}_{3}C{H}_{2}CH\left(Br\right)C{H}_3$

Aqueous $KOH$ is alkaline in nature. These hydroxide ions act as a strong nucleophile and replace the halogen atom in an alkyl halide. This results in the formation of alcohol molecules. Therefore option D is correct.